Penrose

Two men die in head-on collision in Penrose

Two men died in a head-on collision early Monday morning in Penrose, according to the Colorado State Patrol.

CSP is investigating the two-vehicle crash that was reported at 3:45 a.m. on Colo. 115 at mile post 24, about nine miles north of Penrose.

According to a press release from CSP, a 1992 Nissan Sentra was traveling southbound in the northbound lane of Colo. 115 when it collided head on with a 2007 Chevrolet Trail Blazer that was traveling northbound.

The Nissan's driver, Timothy VanHeel, 33, of Colorado Springs, reportedly was unrestrained and was ejected in the crash. He sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene by the Fremont County Coroner.

The Chevrolet's driver, Daniel Picco, 57, of Cañon City, was restrained at the time of the crash and also was pronounced dead on scene.

According to the release, after impact, the Nissan continued southbound, rotating counter-clockwise, ejecting VanHeel, and landed on its wheels in the southbound lane of traffic. The Chevrolet continued northbound, rotating counter-clockwise, and went off the eastside of the road. The Chevrolet eventually landed on its wheels facing south.

Other news reports throughout the day have stated the crash stemmed from an earlier car chase in the area.

However, CSP Trooper Art Gumke said he can't confirm whether there was a chase until the investigation has been completed. He said the only confirmed information was included in the press release.

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